Press Releases

Birmingham City Council approves vote to keep Shell Gas Station Open

PRESS RELEASE Tuesday September 11, 2018

Contact: Chiara Perry

Phone: 205-254-2036

Cell: 205-383-8432

chiara.perry@birminghamal.gov

BIRMINGHAM, AL – During the September 11 Birmingham City Council Meeting, there was a show cause hearing to potentially revoke the business license of the Shell gas station located on 3rd. Ave. West, where Antonio Taylor was shot and killed while on the property in June.

The man who allegedly pulled the trigger has been charged with murder. The debate on whether or not to revoke the business license had previously come before the Public Safety Committee.

About 10 people spoke in favor of the store remaining open, while family members of Taylor, along several other residents, expressed they would like to see the City revoke the business license.

Councilor Hunter Williams, who chairs the Public Safety Committee, began by extending his condolences to the family members who were in attendance.

An attorney representing the owner presented a safety plan to the Council that his client had agreed to adhere to in order to maintain a business license with the city.

Several Councilors wanted to verify one stipulation: that the owner will hire off-duty police officers/security personnel to be on hand from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening.

Residents who attended the meeting spoke about the benefits of having a gas station in the area and how the business owner should not lose his livelihood because of the tragedy that unfolded on his property.

“I’m here on behalf of 3rd Ave.,” said Angela Lomax. “If it’s closed it will just be a vacant building. He’s trying to fight to keep crime away. I’ve seen the owner come outside and ask someone to stop selling drugs when I was there. He could’ve lost his life too. We’re supposed to be a community and want to keep businesses open. What business is going to come along when y’all close it down?”

After hearing from all parties and reviewing the safety plan submitted by the owner — who agreed to maintain the terms as long as his business remains open — the Council voted to let the Shell station remain open.

This press release is a contribution from Cody Owens, Public Information Officer for the Birmingham City Council. For media inquiries please contact the Birmingham City Council Office of Public Information at 205.254.2294.